Hutchinson County included in Gov. Perry's weather emergency declaration

December 6, 2013

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today issued an emergency proclamation directing additional state resources to prepare for a severe winter storm system that is moving across Texas. The governor yesterday activated the Texas Military Forces to preposition assets in preparation for the storm.

“As this winter storm makes its way across the state, I urge all those in the affected communities to closely monitor the storm and prepare for dangerous weather conditions,” Gov. Perry said. “We will continue to take the necessary actions to make state resources available to assist affected areas.”

State resources currently responding include:

• 54 Texas Military Forces personnel and 20 supporting vehicles prepositioned in Wichita Falls and Sherman to assist with rescuing stranded motorists.
• Texas Department of Transportation officials to treat roadways in affected areas. Regional offices are monitoring the situation and remain ready to provide additional assistance as necessary.
• The Public Utility Commission to monitor power outages due to ice and coordinate any necessary response with utility companies.

The National Weather Service is forecasting frozen precipitation across much of Texas, with significant impacts around north and central Texas. Temperatures are forecast to remain below freezing for most of the weekend.

Texans may call 2-1-1 for winter weather related resources, such as information regarding Warming Centers where individuals may seek daytime shelter from the cold. Relay services and cell phone users who have out-of-state area codes can access 2-1-1 in Texas by dialing 1-877-541-7905.

The State Operations Center is activated and working with the National Weather Service to closely monitor this severe weather event.